SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON
Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) is all grown up in the latest clip from Transformers: Dark of the Moon. The last time we saw him, he was entering college. Now fast-forward two years and he's attacking the workforce. Or should we say, it's attacking him. Literally.
Michael Bay just released a new clip/mini-trailer from Dark of the Moon that shows us Witwicky's new life. He's got a new girlfriend and a low-level job at a fancy corporate office. But you know the old saying—the more things change, the more they stay the same. Robots are still out to kill him!
Do you remember that scene in Revenge of the Fallen when every appliance in Sam's kitchen turned against him? Well, that happens again, but this time it's in his office. If you thought copy machines sucked before, wait until you get a glimpse of this!
On another note, Bumblebee is still a huge part of Sam's life. There's a little quip at the end of the video where a smart-mouth soldier asks Sam, "How's your car now?" And it shows Bumblebee run up behind him, transform in midair and cue up his blasters while Sam smugly replies, "That's my car."
Transformers: Dark of the Moon opens everywhere June 29.

THE WALKING DEAD
During a roundtable interview with TV showrunners sponsored by the Hollywood Reporter, The Walking Dead head honcho Frank Darabont expressed his concern that AMC might slash the show's budget for its second season—despite the show being the biggest original series success ever for the network.
Darabont said, "Creatively I have no complaints thus far. But I believe if they do move ahead with what they're talking about, it will affect the show creatively ... in a negative way. Which just strikes me as odd. If you have an asset, why would you punish it?"
Darabont wasn't alone in his fears, with Boardwalk Empire producer Terence Winter saying that his hit HBO series was also looking at budget cuts.

SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 2011

DEFIANCE
We've played plenty of sci-fi games, and we've watched plenty of sci-fi TV shows, but we've never played/watched any sci-fi games/TV shows so deeply enmeshed that what happened in one affected the other. But that's about to change, and even better, Farscape's Rockne O'Bannon is going to be a part of it.
Syfy has teamed up with gaming publisher Trion Worlds to create DEFIANCE, the world's first massively multiplayer online game that's also a scripted live action television series. (Or should that be vice versa?) The open world shooter game will debut at E3 2011 in Los Angeles next week.
According to the HollywoodReporter:
Set on a future Earth, Defiance introduces players and Syfy viewers to a world ravaged by decades of conflict, where humans and aliens live together in a world the likes of which no one has seen. The game combines the frenetic action of a top-tier console shooter with the persistence, scale, and customization of an MMO, while its TV counterpart exudes the scope, story, and drama of a classic sci-fi epic. The game's story will take place in the San Francisco bay area, while the TV series will be set just outside of St. Louis, MO. Because they exist in a single universe, the show and the game will influence and evolve each other over time, with actions in both mediums driving the overall story of Defiance.
But it's the participation of O'Bannon that has us most excited, because he's been working with both the game developer AND the creative team behind the TV series for the past two-three years to help develop the storyline and mythology of both.
Though the game will be demonstrated live for the first time ever next week on PC, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3 at Trion's E3 2011 booth, the release date for the TV series and MMO game has yet to be announced. But we're REALLY looking forward to playing an MMO that lets us affect the plot of a TV show.

NEW UNIVERSAL SCI-FI PROJECT
Universal has acquired an untitled sci-fi crime thriller project from Bobby Glickert, a former assistant turned burgeoning filmmaker. Scott Stuber and Fast Five helmer Justin Lin are producing.
Glickert wrote the outline for the pitch and will direct. He'll also be a producer. The studio will search for a writer to pen the screenplay.
The pick-up brings additional heat to Glickert, who was a P.A. on Transformers and Iron Man, then acted as an assistant to Lin on Fast & Furious. In between, he directed a couple of short films: the action-tinged The Descendent and the horror tale Road to Moloch.
Glickert jumped up several rungs last July when he, with Michael Bay and his Platinum Dunes partners attached as producers, set up a spec sci-fi project at Paramount. That untitled project is still in development.
The new project’s details are being kept secret but speaking to Heat Vision, Lin said: “Taking a step back, as a viewer, the tone and the gritty approach to the sci-fi genre taken here is something that hasn’t been seen in a while.”
Insiders say the project is in the vein of the Michael Mann crime thriller Heat and the Jason Bourne spy-action movies.
Lin said even when Glickert was an assistant, they always talked about projects. “We’ve always shared information and wanted to be part of something we could start from the ground up.”
Part of the appeal for Lin and Glickert is to work with people of like minds in a fun and creative environment, something that doesn’t always happen in the corporate culture.
“When this project gets going, this core group is going to be poeple who’ve I worked with and who’s he’s worked with,” said Lin. “And this will be good to do on a studio film.”
The project was brought into Stuber Pictures by Nick Nesbitt and Michael Clear, with Jon Mone overseeing for the company. Jeff Kirschenbaum and Jay Polidoro will shepherd for the studio.

THE CORRECTORS
Masi Oka is teaming up with writer Alex Sabeti (Art of Cool) on an Inception-esque pilot script for Syfy.
The Correctors follows two agents of the Exceptions Bureau who are dispatched to a parallel universe where they inhabit the bodies of their identical selves in order to stop events from occurring.
The time-travel elements and changing the course of history were key in the plot of NBC’s now-defunct Heroes, where Oka played a Hiro Nakamura, who could bend the space-time continuum.
Sabeti and Oka developed the story and Sabeti will write the script with Masi executive producing and possibly starring. Sabeti and Oka are repped by UTA and The Collective, which will executive produce the project along with its clients.
Project is being developed at Universal Cable Productions.
Osa has had a recurring role on CBS’ Hawaii Five-0 this season.
Syfy has become a player in ad-supported cable’s scripted arena. Last January’s bow of Being Human was the net’s most successful winter scripted series since Battlestar Galactica in 2005. The show, an adaptation of the popular BBC series, averaged 1.9 million viewers per episode.
In July, Syfy will launch a new Monday-night scripted block with new seasons of Eureka, Warehouse 13 (Syfy’s most-watched series averaging 3.4 million viewers last season) and new drama Alphas, while Haven returns Friday, July 15.

SCIENCE FICTION NEWS STORIES:
If you don't see what you are looking for here, check out the News Archive. Here you'll find items from yesterday and last month -- all that has been going on in the world of science fiction.

JEFF CONAWAY PASSES AWAY

Many readers have written in about the sadness they feel about Jeff Conaway's passing. He was a good actor and left an impression on B5 fans as Zack Allen. However, he was also a kind and gracious convention guest. Those who were fortunate enough to meet him said he was thoughtful and appreciated attention from fans.

JMS UPDATE

JMS posted this on his Facebook page yesterday:
Saw Tintin teaser online, and reminded me: I was writing something for Dreamworks and invited to the Tintin set. (No, I can't tell you why or what I saw.) I was sitting with Spielberg on my left, with Peter Jackson live from down under on the monitor in front of me, and Kathleen Kennedy seated behind me and I thought, y'know, it just doesn't get any better than this. Best day ever.

Here's a great article about JMS outlining the THOR story and his cameo appearance in the film.
http://www.comicbookmovie.com/fansites/GulfCoastAvengers/news/?a=37047

Here's an update I picked up in the newsgroup from Jan:
Apologies if the post I sent a few days ago also shows up. JMS has had some pretty exciting announcements recently:
- He's optioned Harlan Ellison's '"Repent, Harlequin!" Said the Ticktockman" and adapted it to a screenplay that's out to producers and directors now.
- He's sold a spec script "Voices from the Dead" to DreamWorks and will also be an Executive Producer on the project.
- and JMS didn't announce it but it looks like he'll be appearing at San Diego Comic-Con this summer.
Given his comments to "ask [him] after April" and the other announcements, I've begun a new Skywatch game. I'll post about that separately.
Jan

OTHER VOICES VOLUME 2

KEEPING UP WITH CAST AND CREW

JOSE TREVINO
BABYLON 5 fans will remember Mr. Trevino as a primary director, but these days, he is involved in a number of new projects. You may see his name on programs like BONES and LAW & ORDER CRIMINAL INTENT. Catch up with him by reading an interview conducted by the Victoria Advocate at http://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/2011/apr/20/gp_josetrevino_042011_136953/?news&local-news

GARY COLE
Ranger Anne reports that Gary Cole will make a return guest appearance on the NBC series "Chuck" on Monday, April 18th, at 8pm ET.
In "Chuck Versus the Wedding Planner," Cole returns as Jack Burton, Sarah Walker's (Yvonne Strahovski) con artist father, a role he first played in Season 2's "Chuck Versus the DeLorean." This time, Sarah & Chuck Bartowski (Zachary Levi) want Burton's help in recovering the wedding funds they lost, in advance of their upcoming nuptials.

ON-LINE INTERVIEWS

SPECIAL FEATURES

BABYLON 5 PRESENCE ON FACEBOOK
I know a lot of you are already on FaceBook. However, I don't know if you knew how many other Babylon 5 folks have taken the plunge and opened FaceBook accounts. In fact, Pat Tallman has reopened her Fan Club using FaceBook at the site. For a peek, go to http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=45593318387. Claudia Christian has been really active -- sharing pictures of her recent trips and letting us know about upcoming convention activities. J. Michael Straczynski (JMS) has a FaceBook page as well as a new "Fans of J. Michael Straczynski" page. So check it out!

THE ZOCALO ON FACEBOOK

Here is a quote from J. Michael Straczynski about emotions.
I had this theory that the more important and intimate the emotion, the fewer words are required to express it.

First it's in dating: "Will you go out with me?" Six words.
"Honey, I care for you." Five words.
"You matter to me." Four words.
"I love you." Three words.
"Marry me." Two words.
But what's left? What's the one most important and intimate word you can ever say to somebody? It's "goodbye."

While Andreas Katsulas (G'Kar), Rick Biggs (Dr. Franklin) and Tim Choate (Zathras) are no longer with us, we will not forget their wonderful personalities and talent -- as well as their significant contributions to the BABYLON 5 universe. Be sure to visit In Memory Of for more information about memorial efforts.
Until we met again, in a place where no shadows fall.

BABYLON 5 BIRTHDAYS

DISCUSSION TOPIC AND ISN BLOG

BABYLON PODCAST #236
Tim and Summer chat a bit about the new Captain Power project that’s in the works, so we’ll see where that one takes the story as production progresses!
Feedbackapalooza: Telepath smackdown? Either way, this episode seems to be chock full of questions from Adam from start to finish.
POLL: Pat Tallman asks us to run a poll on what the fans say their favorite Lyta episodes are, so go vote, already! Poll will close at midnight Pacific on May 9th, and Pat has said she’d love to join us later to talk about the results!
Submitting your own Feedback: If you have any suggestions or comments, please let us know! Call 206-338-2259, or just email us a comment you’ve recorded yourself!
Lurker’s Guide 2.0: Summer is expanding the documentation to be covered at Lurker’s Guide 2.0, the major change being converting the episode guide into a full Wiki with cross-referenced topics, tidbits and everything you’d want in a Wiki. She’s also still searching for pictures of rare collectibles, photos of magazine covers and toys, and all sorts of other B5 goodies that didn’t get included in the original guide during the years after Crusade. Let her know if you want to lend a hand.
More Parody/Filk Songs Wanted: If you know of any more B5-related fan songs out there, definitely let us know, so we can let other B5 fans know where to buy them! And if those CDs are out of print, let’s brainstorm on ways to get those songs back out there for fans!
Live Video Stream: Yes, the technology has progressed to the point where we can now play video voicemails into the video live stream. Check out the live video stream of our show recordings on Wednesday nights:
* Babylon Podcast Live @ Ustream
Babylon Podcast Social Communities:
Twitter: @babylonpodcast
Forums: Babylon Podcast @ FarPoint Forums
Second Life: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Wind%20River%20Territory/50/129/22
Babylon 5 Information Gathering: If you know of a dead or abandoned B5 related website that may be in need of a new home, let Summer know! Maybe we can mirror it here or house it on a sister site.
Catch up on all the podcasts at www.babylonpodcast.com.

NEW THEATER RELEASES

Synopsis:
An expedition looks for answers to something horrible in the forest, but the forest finds something horrible in them.
One Morning in New England, 1940, the entire population of Friar New Hampshire - 572 people - walked together up a winding mountain trail and into the wilderness. They left behind their clothes, their money, all of their essentials. Even their dogs were abandoned, tied to posts and left to starve. No One knows why. A search party dispatched by the U.S. Army eventually discovered the remains of nearly 300 of Friar's evacuees. Many had frozen to death. Others were cruelly and mysteriously slaughtered. The bodies of the remaining citizens are still unaccounted for. Over the years, a quiet cover-up operation managed to weave the story of Friar into the stuff of legends and backwoods fairy tales. The town has slowly repopulated, but the vast wilderness is mostly untracked, with the northern-most stretches off limits to local hunters and loggers. In 2008, the coordinates for the "YELLOWBRICKROAD" trail head were declassified. The first official expedition into a dark and twisted wilderness will attempt to solve the mystery of the lost citizens of Friar...and reach the end of the trail.

Review:
If you like creepy movies, here's one for you. Similar to THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT, a group sets out to discover what happened to a group of people in 1940. This movie is rated "R" for a reason, so beware. The clip above is just a sample of what you will find in the movie itself. It starts out as a friendly expedition -- and ends badly.

Lionsgate has released a new trailer from the upcoming THE DEVIL'S DOUBLE, starring Dominic Cooper. THE DEVIL'S DOUBLE debuts in theaters July 29th, 2011.
SYNOPSIS: Based on a gripping, unbelievable true story of money, power and opulent decadence, Lionsgate's THE DEVIL'S DOUBLE takes a white-knuckle ride deep into the lawless playground of excess and violence known as Bagdad, 1987. Summoned from the frontline to Saddam Hussein's palace, Iraqi army lieutenant Latif Yahia (Dominic Cooper) is thrust into the highest echelons of the "royal family" when he's ordered to become the 'fiday' - or body double - to Saddam's son, the notorious "Black Prince" Uday Hussein (also Dominic Cooper), a reckless, sadistic party-boy with a rabid hunger for sex and brutality. With his and his family's lives at stake, Latif must surrender his former self forever as he learns to walk, talk and act like Uday. But nothing could have prepared him for the horror of the Black Prince's psychotic, drug-addled life of fast cars, easy women and impulsive violence. With one wrong move costing him his life, Latif forges an intimate bond with Sarrab (Ludivine Sangier), Uday's seductive mistress who's haunted by her own secrets. But as war looms with Kuwait and Uday's depraved gangster regime threatens to destroy them all, Latif realizes that escape from the devil's den will only come at the highest possible cost.
Featuring a riveting double performance by Dominic Cooper (AN EDUCATION, MAMA MIA) in the roles of Latif Yahia and Uday Hussein, THE DEVIL'S DOUBLE is a dynamic, chilling adaptation of Latif Yahia's autobiographical novel, charting one man's defiant struggle to survive a viper's pit of corruption and brutality. The film is directed by Lee Tamahori (DIE ANOTHER DAY, XXX: STATE OF THE UNION) and written by Michael Thomas (BACKBEAT, SCANDAL).

RAMMBOCK
Opens in AMC Theaters on May 4, 2011

Synopsis:
Breaking up can be a touch, but trying to reconcile in a city full of walking dead can really add complications to an already difficult relationship. Filmmakers Marvin Kren and Benjamin Hessler have given us Germany's first foray into the Zombie genre, RAMMBOCK, an unlikely tale of love, terror and survival set against the dystopic backdrop of a zombie-infested Berlin.
Heartbroken and clueless, Michael (Michael Fuith) arrives in Berlin to win back the affections of brooding ex-girlfriend Gabi (Anka Graczyk). But he's in for a little disappointment: she's not home and the city is rapidly overrun by bloodthirsty hordes of zombiefied Berliners. His only companion? The plucky Harper (Theo Trebs, "The White Ribbon"), a teenage plumber's apprentice at work in the apartment complex. From their overnight redoubt in Gabi's bedroom, the unlikely duo must escape the infested building, outwit the undead and find her…before it's too late. Rammbock is hide and seek…with zombies!

Video clip:
http://www.imdb.com/video/wab/vi2076575257/

Review:
I am not usually one to watch zombie movies, but I thought I'd give this one a shot. It is subtitled, but after a few minutes, you forget you are reading and just settle down to watch the movie. Unlike so many recent movies, there is not a handsome leading man, but an ordinary looking fellow (Michael) pining away for a woman who has broken off their relationship. Michael goes to his girlfriend's apartment only to find her young friend, Harper. As night falls, they hear commotion in the courtyard. They see people attacking others, biting their necks, killing them. The undead try to get Michael & Harper but they escape and evade the group.
The story gets interesting when Michael runs into Gabi - with another guy. They also meet another young girl and they band together to escape.
There is an interesting ending, one you may expect, but maybe not.
The movie is entertaining, not too bloody (which I liked) and you will find yourself rooting for Michael and Harper as they race from place to place looking for a way out of the city.

NEW FROM THE ARCHIVES

MARLOWE
Now on DVD at the Warner Archive: http://bit.ly/WAC_Marlowe

Synopsis:
Five-hundred bucks doesn’t come easily for private eye Philip Marlowe (James Garner). But when it comes by way of a bribe, it might as well be five cents. He rejects Winslow Wong (Bruce Lee) and his offer of cash...and Wong promptly karates the detective’s office into a junkpile. In a colorful whodunit based on Raymond Chandler’s The Little Sister, Garner’s easygoing style contrasts agreeably with the grim task of sleuthing a case of missing persons, blackmail and ice-pick murders. Carroll O’Connor, Rita Moreno, William Daniels, Sharon Farrell and Jackie Coogan are among the cast of characters living in a sprawling ’60s L.A. so hard-boiled somebody’s got to crack. And when that happens, it's Marlowe’s job to put the pieces together.
Official Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4lOi7VI42c&feature=channel_video_title

Review:
If you loved ROCKFORD FILES, you will truly enjoy MARLOWE. This movie takes a bit from movies created around the same time, MATT HELM, IN LIKE FLINT - and it has a sequence with Bruce Lee that you will truly enjoy. This is a very entertaining movie from the 60s -- with plenty of action to keep you on your toes.

THE JETSONS MEET THE FLINTSTONES
Available on DVD June 14

Synopsis:
It’s the wackiest animated adventure of all space-time when the world’s favorite Modern Stone Age Family comes face to face with the First Family of the Future in a matchup that only Hanna-Barbera Studios can delightfully make possible! Thanks to Elroy’s malfunctioning tie machine, the Flintstones and Rubbles are zapped into the robot-run future while the Jetsons suddenly find themselves in the dinosaur-filed past. Can our fearless families adapt? And more importantly, will they ever get back home? Find out – in a time-hopping animated feature-length romp packed with all the gags, gadgets and nonstop fun unleashed when The Jetsons Meet the Flintstones.

CHALLENGE OF THE GO-BOTS: THE ORIGINAL MINI-SERIES
The GoBots are reporting for action on DVD and they have never looked this good! Experience the first five episodes of the exciting animated series - known to fans as The Battle for Gobotron saga - in revitalized digitally remastered splendor.
On distant planet GoBotron dwells a race of robots able to transform themselves into amazing fighting vehicles. As war rages between noble Guardian GoBots and evil Renegade GoBots, the Renegades escape to Earth to conquer the planet. But the Guardians follow and the battle begins. Along with heroic humans, Leader-1, Turbo and Scooter strive to keep Earth safe from the Renegades and other foes, from invading aliens to deranged scientists and dangerous gangs. Based on Hasbro's GoBots toy line, the American version of the Japanese toy line Machine Robo, the animated Challenge of the GoBots: The Original Miniseries explodes with intergalactic excitement.

BATMAN, SUPERMAN, WONDER WOMAN SHINE LIKE NEVER BEFORE IN BLU-RAYTM RELEASE OF JUSTICE LEAGUE: SEASON 2
COMING JULY 26 FROM WARNER HOME VIDEO

Two-disc collector set includes all 26 second-season episodes of popular Warner Bros. Animation series

BURBANK, CA (May 25, 2011) - Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and their DC Comics super hero comrades burst onto the scene in dazzling high definition as Justice League: Season 2 arrives on Blu-ray™ for the first time. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation, the series' 26-episode second season will be distributed on Blu-ray™ by Warner Home Video on July 26, 2011 for $39.99 SRP. Order due date is June 21,2011.
Amping up the action, intrigue and epic storylines from its successful first season, Justice League: Season 2 crossed new boundaries in its portrayal of the greatest fighting force in the universe. Comprised of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Green Lantern, Martian Manhunter and Hawkgirl, the Justice League wages war with their own personal demons and internal issues of mistrust and insecurity, all the while battling a most heinous collection of villains led by Darkseid, Brainiac, Solomon Grundy, Amazo, Joker, Vandal Savage and more.
Justice League Season 2 was produced by Bruce Timm and James Tucker. The core voice cast features George Newbern (Superman), Kevin Conroy (Batman), Susan Eisenberg (Wonder Woman), Michael Rosenbaum (Flash), Phil LaMarr (Green Lantern) Carl Lumbly (Martian Manhunter) and Maria Canals Barrera (Hawkgirl).
The guest cast includes many topline actors from film and television, most notably Mark Hamill (Star Wars) as Joker, Efrem Zimbalist, Jr. (The F.B.I.) as Alfred, Robert Englund (A Nightmare on Elm Street) as Felix Faust, Powers Boothe (Deadwood, 24) as Gorilla Grodd, Ron Perlman (Hellboy, Sons of Anarchy) as both Clayface and Orion, Brad Garrett (Everybody Loves Raymond) as Lobo, Dennis Haysbert (24, The Unit) as Kilowog, Tom Sizemore (Saving Private Ryan) as Metamorpho, Eric Roberts (Runaway Train) as Mongul and Robert Picardo (Stargate) as Amazo.
Justice League: Season 2 on Blu-ray™ boasts several interesting bonus features, including:
All-New Featurette: "The Justice Lords and Beyond" - An in-depth exploration of the alternate reality concept, the use of this physical theory in the DC Comics Universe and the alternate Earth created in the fan-favorite Justice League episode "A Better World."
The Royal Wedding – William & Catherine
Available on DVD: May 24th
Official Site URL: www.bbcamericashop.com

Synopsis:
The royal wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton was the event of a lifetime. BBC Video is making available this beautiful, commemorative DVD of the event on sale on May 24th! This wonderful keepsake will capture all of the pomp and pageantry of the historic occasion like no other memento. The DVD will include the complete ceremony plus highlights from the official BBC pre- and post-wedding coverage. Also included is the special bonus program, “William and Kate: A Royal Engagement,” presenting the story of William and Kate’s relationship via interviews with colleagues, friends and family. Lovers of the crown will want to own this special, commemorative DVD of this most delightful of events, the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton.

Review:
Everyone loves a wedding -- and a royal wedding is indeed something special. I was up early in the morning to watch the wedding live from London, but the BBC has recorded the event so that those who enjoyed the gala event (or even those who missed it), can revisit all of the events leading up to William & Kate's special day.

THE RITE

Inspired by true events, this supernatural thriller follows a seminary student (Colin O’Donoghue) sent to study exorcism at the Vatican in spite of his own doubts about the controversial practice and even his own faith. Only when sent to apprentice with legendary Father Lucas (Anthony Hopkins), who has performed thousand of exorcisms, does his armor of skepticism begin to fall. Drawn into a troubling case that seems to transcend even Father Lucas’s skill, the young seminarian glimpses a phenomenon science can’t explain or control – and an evil so violent and terrifying that it forces him to question everything he believes. http://whatdoyoubelieve.warnerbros.com/dvd/

Video clips:
The Rite: Close the Door http://youtu.be/WkApiEg4_Ts
The Rite: Father Lucus http://youtu.be/IegxOnW7UgM

Review:
I love Sir Anthony Hopkins as an actor. There have been few projects he has been a part of that I haven't totally enjoyed. In THE RITE, he portrays Father Lucas, an exorcist in Rome. A young seminar student is seeking his destiny and is questioning his faith. He helps Father Lucas battle the devil and in so doing, finds his path in life.
I am not usually one to watch this type of movie, but I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. The passion Father Lucas, the skepticism of Michael Knovack hit home. It is fascinating that this story is inspired by true events.
Extras included with the DVD include an alternate ending and interviews with Father Gary Thomas who inspired the film.

SMALLVILLE: THE COMPLETE SERIES
BURBANK, CA (April 27, 2011) - After 10 incredible seasons, Smallville: The Complete Series will arrive on DVD this fall. This ultimate collector's set for the ultimate fan features over 192 hours of content - including all 218 episodes, over five hours of newly added special features such as an unaired, never-before-seen Superboy pilot from 1961, a 90-minute series retrospective with all new interviews, the 2010 final Comic-Con panel and more!
In addition, exclusive printed materials include a Daily Planet newspaper, written by DC Comics, that highlights the important storylines developed during the 10-year run of the show and an episode guide with never-before-seen production art (storyboards/sketches) and behind-the-scenes photos. Smallville: The Complete Series is presented in highly collectable new packaging consisting of two lay-flat picture books that hold 62 discs.
"It's been an unbelievable 10 season run for Smallville, still one of the most popular series on television and one of our best-selling titles on DVD," said Rosemary Markson, WHV Vice President, TV and Special Interest Marketing. "The fan base for the franchise is not only huge, but loyal and they're going to love this ultimate collector's edition."

The two-hour SMALLVILLE series finale will air on Friday, May 13, 2011, at 8pm on The CW Television Network.

GREEN LANTERN: EMERALD KNIGHTS

Here is an interview with fan favorite NATHAN FILLION who is the voice of Hal Jordan in GREEN LANTERN: EMERALD KNIGHTS. Go to Nathan Fillion to read about this love of the comic and his current hit series, CASTLE.

Please watch the interview clip featuring ELISABETH MOSS (Mad Men, The West Wing), and the voice of Arisia.
http://www.isnnews.net/zocalo/images/GLEK_Moss_Role.wmv.

Enjoy this video clip of GREEN LANTERN: EMERALD KNIGHTS:
http://www.isnnews.net/zocalo/images/GLEK_ArisiaKrona.wmv.

Singer/actor/spoken-word artist Henry Rollins, the voice of Kilowog in "Green Lantern: Emerald Knights" talked about his experience in creating the character Kilowog. The interview can be found at Henry Rollins. The DC Universe Animated Original Movie will be released by Warner Home Video on June 7, 2011.

HUMAN PLANET
HUMAN PLANET will debut on Blu-ray and DVD April 26th, just two days after the broadcast conclusion. You can catch the series on the Discovery Channel Sundays at 8pm. To support the series, BBC has launched an official Facebook page, featuring the new game Human Planet Trivia Challenge. Challenge friends, race against the clock, and see if you have what it takes to top the leader board. Each week we will be giving away incredible prizes including Blu-ray/DVD copies, framed photos, and award winning books.
One lucky grand prize winner will receive an amazing HUMAN PLANET prize pack!
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AT www.Facebook.com/HumanPlanetTVSeries

About Human Planet
HUMAN PLANET is the first BBC/Discovery Channel co-production to focus solely on human behavior. Since premiering in the UK, the series has received overwhelming critical acclaim including The Telegraph proclaiming, “it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before” and The Sun stating that it’s “visually stunning and utterly fascinating, this is seriously impressive stuff.” From the makers of Planet Earth, Life and Blue Planet, Human Planet focuses on humanities amazing, complex and profound relationship with nature. It weaves together 80 stories, many never told before, to illuminate humanity’s uncanny ability to adapt and live in every corner of our diverse world. Each episode centers on a particular habitat, and by using innovative and cutting edge filming techniques, reveals how its people have created astonishing solutions in the face of extreme adversity.
The Discovery Channel version will be presented by Charles Parnell and consists of six episodes that will take viewers to the farthest reaches of the globe culminating with, Life at the Extremes, a “best of” episode. The Human Planet DVD and Blu-ray will include all eight episodes from the original UK broadcast version, presented by John Hurt, extending the home viewing experience with three hours of footage not seen in the North American broadcast. It will include the episode, Cities, which will be exclusive to the DVD and Blu-ray. Additionally, the DVD and Blu-ray will take viewers deeper into the heart of Human Planet with its set of ten Behind the Lens “making of” bonus features, and, exclusive to Blu-ray, a further “making of” feature called, Zanskar, accessible via BD-Live. Zanskar showcases the astonishing life struggles of a resilient group of people living at the edge of the Himalayas.

OLIVER STONE FILMS

Warner Bros. Digital Distribution honors the legendary film director Oliver Stone with the release of ALEXANDER: REVISITED for the first time On Demand and For Download in addition to other favorites he directed including Natural Born Killers, Any Given Sunday, Heaven & Earth, and JFK.
The release also features films that Oliver Stone personally selected as his favorites including A Clockwork Orange, The Departed, Casablanca, Gran Torino and more. On iTunes: http://bit.ly/WB_STONE

Clips:
Oliver Stone on Alexander: Revisited:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WW4jadZBwM
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/dd/med/alexander/clips/Alexander_WBDD_Oliver_Stone_DDDD_DD_AlexanderRevisited_v4.jpg_qt_700.mov

Alexander: Revisited (Preview Clip):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvPwVBMPL98
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/dd/med/alexander/clips/Alexander_WBDD_Believe_Me_DD_AlexanderRevisited_v4.jpg_qt_700.mov

SUPERMAN: THE MOTION PICTURE ANTHOLOGY (1978-2006) DEBUTS ON BLU-RAY™ JUNE 7 FROM WARNER HOME VIDEO

FAREWELL
Official website: www.farewellthemovie.com

Vancouver based NeoClassics Home Entertainment will release the critically acclaimed film FAREWELL, (L’AFFAIRE FAREWELL) from Academy Award nominated Director Christian Carion and starring Emir Kusturica and Guillaume Canet, on DVD in the US April 19, 2011. The film will be available on release from Amazon, Blockbuster, iTunes, Sonic, Sony, Verizon, and is scheduled to be on Vudu and YouTube. DISH, In Demand and TVN have all picked up the film for video-on-demand (VOD) for April 12. br> This French film has garnered significant acclaim and box office success since its US theatrical debut last July. It played in dozens of cities over a period of five months, staying in release through November 2010. The film world-premiered at the Telluride Film Festival and went on to the Toronto International Film Festival.
FAREWELL is the riveting true story of a KGB colonel who, disenchanted with what the Communist ideal has become under Leonid Brezhnev, gives top-secret documents to a French businessman working in Russia, helping to hasten the end of the Cold War. He didn’t do this for money, but rather that a new world might dawn for his fellow Russians, but especially for his son.
Based on the book Bonjour Farewell by Serguei Kostine, the film, directed by Christian Carion (Academy Award® nominated JOYEUX NOEL), boasts a strong international cast starring two noted film directors who are also respected actors, Guillaume Canet (THE BEACH; MERRY CHRISTMAS, TELL NO ONE) and Emir Kusturica (THE GOOD THIEF, UNDERGROUND, ARIZONA DREAM). The ensemble also includes Alexandra Maria Lara, Ingeborda Dapkunaite, Diane Kruger, Willem Dafoe, Fred Ward and David Soul.
Thomas Reed, a former US Secretary of the Air Force and historian, wrote: “Please extend my heartiest congratulations to Fred Ward for his portrayal of Reagan. I knew ‘RR’ as well as anyone, from sharing motel rooms in Modesto to coffee in the Governor's non- mansion in Sacramento. Mr. Ward captured the mannerisms; the makeup people captured the face, the wardrobe people captured the costumes exactly. Wow!”

Review:
It has been a while since I watched a movie with subtitles, but this one was worth the effort. A story right out of the history books, you follow two men (one French; one Russian) as they fight for freedom in Russia. Both have families, both know what they are doing will make a difference in the world. The lives of both families are forever changed by their actions, but they did it for love of country, not money! That is perhaps why they succeeded.
The acting is marvelous -- you see the terror in the eyes of the family as they are taken in for interrogation. You hope that there is enough time for the French businessman and his family to get across the border before word comes about his involvement in the plot. In the end, the Russian gives his life for his cause -- and his French friend.
This is a powerful movie and you really have to wait until the closing minutes to see the intricacy of the entire affair. This is a perfect movie for the thriller fan. It will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end.

BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD SEASON ONE PART TWO
Available: March 15, 2011
Official URL: http://familyentertainment.kidswb.com/product/batman-the-brave-and-the-bold-season-one-part-two
WBshop URL:
http://www.wbshop.com/Batman-The-Brave-And-The-Bold-Season-One-Part-Two/1000155395,default,pd.html?cgid=&adid=WB_ADS_WBE_FB_BatmanTheBraveandTheBoldS1P2

Synopsis:
Batman wings into an exciting new era, teaming with a mighty honor roll of DC Comics Super Heroes in this action-packed series. Through the show’s final 13 Animated Adventures in this 2-Disc Collection, the Dark Knight allies with Aquaman, Plastic Man, Blue Beetle, Red Tornado, Green Arrow, Wildcat, Deadman, Bronze Tiger and Atom to take on an array of evildoers ranging from mad scientists to intergalactic crooks, from power-mad dictators to out-of-control teenagers. He even travels to a parallel world, becoming the villainous Owlman! In this cool, cutting-edge and often funny series bringing back old-school comic-book styling and dry wit to crimefighting, Batman faces any peril – including other heroes stealing the show – in his relentless pursuit of justice.

Renowned writer Grant Morrison discusses page-to-screen transition of his landmark ALL-STAR SUPERMAN. Use this link to read through the whole interview. Grant Morrison .

Mad Men’s Christina Hendricks fits childhood dreams into a busy mainstream schedule as the voice of Lois Lane in ALL-STAR SUPERMAN.
Here are links to some special material:

Christina Hendricks - Lois Lane
Lois Lane.

Review:
Batman fans will love this DVD. The stories are cleverly written and with a very distinct sense of humor. I thought Kevin Conroy was the only voice of Batman -- but this DVD introduces us to Diedrich Bader who does an outstanding job.
This DVD pays homage to the Batman of the early to late 60s. You also are introduced to other superheroes with each episode -- like the Blue Beetle, Red Tornado, Wildcat, Deadman. You also get adventures with some of your favorites like Aquaman, Green Arrow, Atom.
I know my nephew and his children are going to love these new adventures. Brings back memories for some of us older folks as well.

HEREAFTER
Available on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, On Demand and for Download 3/15! http://bit.ly/HereafterFB

George (Matt Damon) is a blue-collar American with a special connection to the afterlife dating from his childhood. French journalist Marie (Cécile de France) has a near-death experience that shakes her reality. And when London schoolboy Marcus (Frankie and George McLaren) loses the person closest to him, he desperately needs answers. Each seeking the truth, their lives will intersect, forever changed by what they believe might – or must – exist in the hereafter. Academy Award winner* Clint Eastwood directs this haunting original tale from a screenplay by two-time Oscar nominee* Peter Morgan. Jay Mohr, Bryce Dallas Howard, Marthe Keller and Derek Jacobi also star. http://hereafter.warnerbros.com/dvd/

Review:
Clint Eastwood is a master story teller. This movie starts with an awesome visual -- a tsaumi that nearly kills Marie. You see twin brothers battling for their existence with a mother who is into drugs and alcohol. Matt Damon, one of the best actors in the business today, portrays a man who can see the future. This "gift" has prevented him from having a life, a real relationship, any emotional link to another individual. His brother can't understand why George (Damon) won't return to using his gift to make a good living rather than working in a factory. All three are searching for answers and eventually find each other. Their journeys are intertwined and their stories will keep you watching.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS
Dungeons & Dragons Facts:
Official Site: http://bit.ly/WBD_Dungeons

Preview Clip:
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/dd/med/dungeonsanddragons/clips/DandD_US_WBHE_Filmclip_headoff_qt_700.mov

Synopsis:
The imaginary world of the most popular fantasy role-playing game ever comes to life in this special-effects-filled adventure. In the Empire of Izmer, magic is the key to power in both the supernatural and political realms. The Mages are a sect who know the secrets of magic and use it to hold sway over the masses. The youthful Empress Savina wants to use her powers to bring justice and prosperity to all, but Profion is an evil Mage who wants to use his knowledge of magic to overthrow Savina and establish his own despotic rule. Through deceitful means, Profion wins away the special scepter that allows him to control the nation’s Golden Dragons; Savina’s only hope to recover the scepter and the rule of Izmer is to obtain the Rod of Savrille, a talisman that will give her powers over the Red Dragons, even more powerful than their golden counterparts. As Savina sets out to gain control of the Red Dragons, she gains a number of unlikely allies.

FELICITY: AN AMERICAN GIRL ADVENTURE
Available: February 15, 2011

Synopsis:
Meet Felicity Merriman, a 10 year-old girl who’s as spirited and independent as the American colonies she lives in. For the first time ever, Felicity comes to life on screen in Felicity: An American Girl Adventure, a full- length live action movie based on American Girl’s best-selling books.
When Felicity meets Penny, a beautiful copper colored mare, she knows with all her heart that she must free Penny from her cruel owner. Felicity desperately wishes for that same sureness of heart about the rumors of revolution swirling through Williamsburg. Felicity’s father believes that the colonies should be free form England’s rule, but her beloved grandfather and her best friend Elizabeth both support the king. With fiercely conflicting loyalties dividing the colonists, something as simple as a cup of tea could divide Felicity from her best friend forever. As Christmastide draws near, Felicity struggles to hold her family and friends close, and to find ways for love and friendship to rise above the growing conflict.

Review:
This was a great movie! Yes, it has no special effects, it's about a girl during the pre-Revolutionary War period but it has heart, a good story and a wonderful cast. What more can you ask for?
Felicity is a young 10 year old girl with lots of spirit, an independent spirit in a difficult time. She lives in Williamsburg and her father (John Schneider from Smallville) is a storekeeper. Her family is reasonably well-off because of the business, but her father is torn between loyalty to England and the independence of the colonies.
I loved the sequences of Felicity and her grandfather (who was a Loyalist to the core). He was a wise man who owned a plantation and raised horses. Felicity acquired her love of horses from her grandfather -- along with wisdom beyond her years. When she sees a horse being mistreated, she tries to save the animal -- that she names Penny because of her copper color. The horses's owner will have none of it -- he is a cranky fellow who has recently lost his wife and fallen into alcholism.
This story has something for everyone. You watch Felicity grow into a wonderful young lady, fighting to remain independent in thought and manner.
I don't want to give away the story -- you should pick up this DVD to watch with your family. The lessons learned by Felicity would best be learned by everyone! Nothing is stronger than friendship and family.

LIFE AS WE KNOW IT -- On Demand and For Download for Valentine’s Day!
LIFE AS WE KNOW IT is available now On Demand and For Download http://bit.ly/f0FI2q

SYNOPSIS
After a distastrous first date for caterer Holly (Katherine Heigl) and network sports director Messer (Josh Duhamel), all they have is common is a dislike for each other and their love for their goddaughter Sophie. But when they suddenly become all Sophie has in this world, Holly and Messer must set their differences aside. Juggling careers and social calendars, they’ll have to find common ground while living under the same roof. Josh Lucas, Christina Hendricks, Hayes MacArthur and Jean Smart co-star in this tart and tender romantic comedy directed by Greg Berlanti (Brothers & Sisters, Everwood). http://lifeasweknowitmovie.warnerbros.com/

VIDEO CLIPS:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7OUb1Pz9MM

Review:
While the plot of this movie seemed pretty familiar, it had a number of twists and turns. Katherine Heigl is wonderful as Holly - a baker/caterer who must take on the responsibility of raising a young baby with a network sports director (Josh Duhamel). Neither were ready for this kind of life, but they honored the request of their best friends, to raise their daughter, Sophie if anything happened to them. Holly & Messer's first date was a total disaster, yet Sophie had brought them together and they loved the child and were willing to give up quite a lot in each of their lives. Through the dirty diapers, first steps, competing careers, Holly and Messer do develop feelings for each other. They realize they complete each other -- with Sophie -- they are a family.
If you like love stories, this is a good Sunday evening flick. Girls -- Josh Duhamel is very easy on the eyes. This is well worth the price -- and you'll want to share it with your friends.

TOM AND JERRY: FUR FLYING ADVENTURES
Available February 8, 2011

Synopsis:
They’re at it again – hilariously – in a new and nutty 14-cartoon collection! In this corner, a perturbed pussycat. In the other corner, a mischievous mouse. Let the comedic mayhem begin with this menagerie of 14 fur-flying dust-ups. The tussling twosome travel through time (Guided Mouse-ille), to Europe (Neapolitan Mouse) and into space (O-Solar-Meow). And it’s two against one when Tom’s scaredy-cat cousin George comes to town in Timid Tabby. But Jerry comes out on top time and again in Pet Peeve, That’s My Mommy and Robin Hoodwinked. This collection’s classic cartoons starring your family’s longstanding favorite cat and mouse duo again prove that as their rivalry is neverending, so are the joy and the laughs they spark!

SCOOBY-DOO! MYSTERY INC. SEASON 1 VOLUME 1
Available on DVD: January 25, 2011
WBShop Product Page: http://www.wbshop.com/ScoobyDoo-Mystery-Inc-Vol-1/1000155580,default,pd.html?cgid=&adid=WB_ADS_WBE_FB_Scooby-DooMysteryV1

Synopsis:
Hop in the van for Mystery Inc.’s new, cool series of spooky capers. Like, it’s an all-new Scooby-Doo TV series for families who want their mysteries like Scooby-Doo and Shaggy want their pizza … spicy with extra sauce! Join the gang in Crystal Cove – the most haunted place on Earth – to solve creepy cases packed with fearsome spooks and frights, exciting chases, terrifying surprises and of course, Freddy’s ingenious traps. But the gang doesn’t fall for that ghost stuff anymore. They know there’s always a bad guy behind the monster suit, until they receive a cryptic clue from the mysterious Mr. E, who challenges them with their greatest mystery yet – to uncover the secret behind the curse of Crystal Cove! Get trapped with Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Freddy, Daphne and Velma in four action-packed adventures from the cool, new show that’s a lot of doggone fun!

Review:
I always love watching Scooby-Doo and Mystery Inc. as they wander about solving mysteries. In this DVD, the voices are a little different, but the overall quality is very good. If you are a Scooby-Doo fan, you will love this one. While adults could have a hard time sitting still, kids should enjoy some of the childish humor sprinkled throughout the show.

MERLIN - THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON
Availabe on DVD: January 18, 2011
Official Site URL: http://www.bbcamericashop.com

Synopsis:
Merlin is back with even more magic, adventure and romance as the young wizard struggles to protect Prince Arthur in the perilous world of Camelot. While battling deadly assassins, mystical monsters and the most powerful sorcerers Camelot has ever seen, Merlin must work harder than ever to conceal his unique abilities, as King Uther redoubles his war against magic. And Merlin isn’t the only one whose destiny calls—Lady Morgana , Uther’s ward, discovers dangerous secrets she dare not reveal; Lancelot returns, changing everything for both Gwen and Arthur; and King Uther fall in love, little knowing that the charming Lady Catrina is secretly a hideous troll. And as Arthur continues on his path from arrogant prince to the noble and just King Arthur of legend, we see the return of the one prophesised to kill him—the mysterious druid boy, Mordred. Featuring exciting new villains, white-knuckle stunt sequences, and spectacular CGI monsters, Merlin season two is more thrilling than ever.

Review:
I love BBC series! They have great stories, marvelous acting -- and in this case -- awesome special effects. MERLIN is one of those shows you could sit and watch for a while and not get the least bit bored. You are always looking for the next turn, the next magical moment. I absolutely love the dragon (voiced by John Hurt). Merlin seeks help from the dragon reluctantly -- and must promise to free the dragon from his chains one day. Anthony Head is very good as King Uther along with all the other cast members. This would be a good one to watch with children. While there is some violence, there is also lessons to be learned about leading people (from Prince Arthur) and service others (Merlin).

ER: THE COMPLETE FOURTEENTH SEASON
Available on DVD: January 11, 2011

Synopsis:
At an ER party, Nurse Chuny Marquez recalls, “I still remember when Mark Green and Doug Ross were running the place.” “Who?” asks a newcomer. So much has happened in 14 seasons, so many people have come and gone, but the chaos of saving lives and the dedication of the people who make County General run remain. In this penultimate season of the powerful, award-winning series, personal tragedies threaten – and sometimes strengthen – relationships among the staff. And the patients bring their own compelling stories. A boy genius diagnoses his mysterious illness, a cancer-ridden prison doctor is haunted by the men he put to death, a woman arrives in the ER expecting her 13th baby. Triumph, loss, tears, joy…next!

SAMANTHA: AN AMERICAN GIRL HOLIDAY
Available on DVD: January 7, 2011

Synopsis: The American Girl collection of books, dolls, and accessories makes its film debut in this inaugural title featuring bestselling character Samantha, in a live-action holiday story set in 1904. AnnaSophia Robb plays Samantha Parkington, a poised yet playful 9-year-old who lives with her wealthy grandmother (Mia Farrow) in a country estate after the untimely death of her parents. Still grieving her loss, Samantha takes comfort in her friendships with new pal Nellie, a servant girl, and her dashing Uncle Gard (Jordan Bridges), a successful businessman. When Uncle Gard marries Cornelia (Rebecca Mader), Samantha is reluctant to embrace this female "intruder" until she spends three months with the newlyweds in New York City. In time, Samantha grows to trust and admire Cornelia, a spirited suffragette. Emboldened by Cornelia's example, Samantha takes her own courageous risks to improve the plight of some young orphans. This superbly produced film provides a glimpse into America during the Industrial Revolution, while showcasing the promising talents of young Robb. (Ages 8 and older) --Lynn Gibson, Amazon.com

Review:
This is one of those movies all ages can watch -- and enjoy. While targeted at girls, with tons of merchandising to go along with it (books, dolls, etc.), the story is a good one that sends a good message as well.
This is a wonderful period piece, showing people dealing with issues like Womens Sufferage, Child labor, and the lack of mandatory education. More movies of this sort need to be show -- to enlighten young people to conditions that were quite different from today's society -- yet needed to make us appreciate the freedoms we enjoy today.

LOONEY TUNES SUPER STARS: FOGHORN LEGHORN & FRIENDS
and LOONEY TUNES SUPER STARS: TWEETY & SYLVESTER

Both available on DVD: November 30th

Looney Tunes Super Stars: Foghorn Leghorn & Friends
Synopsis:
Foghorn Leghorn, the overgrown, adult rooster with the strong Virginia accent and a penchant for mischief, is featured as the Super Star is these Looney Tunes cartoon shorts. Watch the diminutive Henery Hawk’s attempts to catch and eat Foghorn, Foghorn’s gags on his canine nemesis Barnyard Dawg and finally the overgrown rooster’s efforts to woo the widowed hen Miss Prissy in this collection of cartoon shorts. Additionally Foghorn is joined on the disc by some other Looney Friends such as Elmer Fudd and Two Crows.
This second installment of the “Looney Tunes Super Star” series, prominently stars Foghorn Leghorn & some of his Looney Tunes friends – Fans have been asking for more of Foghorn Leghorn so I Say I Say I Say Son here it is!

Looney Tunes Super Stars: Tweety & Sylvester
Synopsis:
When Friz Freleng directed 1947's "Tweetie Pie," he may not have known he was making history. This, the first pairing of Sylvester the sputtering cat and Tweetie (later Tweety) the wide-eyed canary, won an Academy Award and united a duo that would appear in more than 40 Warner Brothers cartoon shorts by 1962. Sylvester and Tweety earned their studio another Academy Award for 1957's "Birds Anonymous" and several other Oscar nominations through the years. Generations of Americans have grown up watching Sylvester's classic, ever-thwarted attempts to catch Tweety. With two of the most famous voices in cartoons, both supplied by Mel Blanc, Sylvester's sloppy "sufferin succotash" and Tweety's baby-voiced "I tawt I taw a puddy tat," Sylvester and Tweety are two of the most quickly identified characters in cartoons.
This second installment of the “Looney Tunes Super Star” series prominently stars one of the Looney Tunes franchise’s most popular characters, Tweety!

Review:
I have to thank Warner Bros. for bringing these cartoons back. They are THE BEST of the best when talking about Sylvester & Tweety and Foghorn Leghorn & Friends. These cartoons have been hand picked, starting with the first Tweety Pie cartoon and going forward. These award-winning cartoons will make you laugh -- guaranteed.
The best part is that they have also been restored, so the colors are vivid and the animation still holds up after all these years. While I enjoyed watching them, I'm sure the children in my family will enjoy them as well. Can't wait to see what their reaction will be.

THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA
Available on DVD: November 9th
Official Site URL: www.bbcamericashop.com

Synopsis:
C.S. Lewis’s enchanting tale comes to life in this classic BBC adaptation from 1988. When young Second World War evacuee Lucy Pevensie hides in an old wardrobe during a game of hide and seek, she finds herself transported to the magical land of Narnia, locked in eternal winter by the evil White Witch. Her siblings do not believe her when she tells them of this strange new world, but they are soon in Narnia themselves, fighting alongside the noble lion Aslan to defeat the witch and her mighty army. This set includes the following complete stories from the book series: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe; Prince Caspian; The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; The Silver Chair.

Review:
I have loved all the CHRONICLES OF NARNIA movies so far. However, this BBC production is equally as wonderful. While done on a much smaller scale, the story still is magnificent. The actors, young and old, are terrific and I find the episodic nature of the stories much easier to follow -- especially for younger viewers. This production is a good introduction to the novels written by C.S. Lewis.

HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS - Part 1
Warner Bros. Digital Distribution (WBDD) prepares you for HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS - PART 1 with the release of the first five Harry Potter films this month On Demand (cable & satellite) and through digital Download on iTunes, Amazon Video On Demand, XBOX and PlayStation and other online digital retailers.

Check out: ON DEMAND: www.WarnerBros.com/HarryPotter
FOR DOWNLOAD: http://bit.ly/WB_HarryPotter_1

The all-new HARRY POTTER MONTAGE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzyKcLc1jmo

WEST WING ON BLU-RAY

Warner Bros. Digital Distribution (WBDD) has announced that all seven seasons of THE WEST WING are now available for the first time in high definition exclusively through digital download on iTunes, Amazon Video On Demand and other online digital retailers. Winner of 30 Emmy Awards™ and two Golden Globes™, The West Wing aired between 1999 and 2006, giving viewers a fictionalized look inside life in the Oval Office.
WBDD is also giving fans of THE WEST WING an exclusive behind-the-scenes interview with one of the show’s executive producers, Thomas Schlamme. Now available at http://bit.ly/WBDD_WestWing, fans can get a sneak peek and hear details about the show they love.
THE WEST WING offers a behind-the-scenes look at the life of the eclectic group of frenzied staffers in the Oval Office. The sophisticated series starred Rob Lowe, Dulé Hill, Allison Janney, Janel Moloney, Richard Schiff, John Spencer, Bradley Whitford and Martin Sheen. Acclaimed dramatist Aaron Sorkin (A Few Good Men, The American President, The Social Network) created the series and executive produced with Thomas Schlamme and John Wells. The West Wing is from John Wells Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television.

Video Clip:
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/dd/med/westwing/s7/clips/ww_interview_fondestmemory_qt_700_amazonitunes.mov

THE DC SHOWCASE ANIMATED SHORTS COLLECTION

Warner Home Video is proud to distribute two exciting DC Comics-based titles -- "The DC Showcase Animated Shorts Collection" featuring the all-new short, "Superman/Shazam: The Return of Black Adam"; and the 75- year documentary celebration, "Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics."

Video clips:
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/dc/dcshowcase/clips/dc_showcase_superman_shazam_pt1_qt_300.mov

http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/dc/dcshowcase/clips/dc_showcase_superman_shazam_pt1_qt_300.mov

Review:
I couldn't wait to see the Superman/Shazam DVD. The story of the origin of Shazam is wonderful. Many have read the story of how Shazam came to be. Orphaned Billy Batson is a friend of Clark Kent and later they become an invinsible team. Good story, especially for smaller children. The triumph of good over evil -- right over wrong.

Also on the DVD are stories featuring The Spectre (with voice of Gary Cole as The Spectre); Green Arrow and Jonah Hex. While I enjoyed all four features, it seemed that they became increasingly violent as the DVD went on. So parents will want to review the material (as they always should) before having smaller children watch the segmentrs.

GOING THE DISTANCE
Synopsis:
When a six week romp through NYC inadvertently becomes meaningful, Erin (Drew Barrymore) and Garret (Justin Long) decide to see if they can go the distance in a coast-to-coast relationship.

Starring: Drew Barrymore, Justin Long
Supporting actors: Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Christina Applegate

Review:
I'm not much on romantic comedies. While this one had a decent story, I was turned off by the somewhat vulgar and sophomoric dialog/situations.

SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER
Release Date: March 1, 2011

Mystical moonstones, creepy creatures and unlikely romances are on the docket for Mystery Inc. in SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER, an all-new, live action movie featuring an exclusive extended cut of the film with never-before- seen music sequences coming to Blu-Ray™ and DVD March 1, 2011 from Warner Premiere and Cartoon Network. A follow-up to its smash-hit predecessor Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins, Scooby-Doo! Curse of the Lake Monster will be available from Warner Home Video as a Blu-Ray™ Combo Pack and single disc DVD. Order due date is January 25, 2011. The film will also be available On Demand and for Download.
SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER finds the Mystery Inc. gang heading toward summer jobs at a country club owned by Daphne's uncle, only to stumble onto strange happenings around the local lake - including an enormous Frog Monster terrorizing the locals. There's mystery afoot and romance in the air that only the fearful foursome-plus-one can solve. Group leader Fred, drama queen Daphne, brainiac Velma, fun-loving Shaggy and the cowardly Scooby-Doo are on the case!

SHERLOCK: SEASON ONE
Release date: November 9, 2010

Synopsis:
A contemporary take on the classic Arthur Conan Doyle stories, Sherlock is a thrilling, funny, fast-paced adventure series set in present-day London. Co-created by Steven Moffat (Doctor Who, Coupling) and Mark Gatiss, Sherlock stars BAFTA-nominee Benedict Cumberbatch (Hawking, Amazing Grace) as the new Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman (The Office, Love Actually), as his loyal friend, Doctor John Watson. Rupert Graves plays Inspector Lestrade. The iconic details from Conan Doyle's original books remain ? they live at the same address, have the same names and, somewhere out there, Moriarty is waiting for them. And so across three thrilling, scary, action-packed and highly modern-day adventures, Sherlock and John navigate a maze of cryptic clues and lethal killers to get at the truth.

Video Clip:
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/sherlock/S1/clips/Sherlock_Ep01_Clip_02_DV_qt_300.movM

Review:
Like so many BBC series, SHERLOCK is very well done. SHERLOCK HOLMES is a wonderful combination of crisp writing, subtle humor and engaging. With the recent big screen version of SHERLOCK HOLMES, more viewers should seek out this BBC series. It is smart and fast paced, with original stories that make you want to see more. The fact that the series is set in modern time does not detract from the original concept at all -- in fact it adds to the enjoyment and makes it easier to relate to the current time period.

DVD REVIEWS

There are a number of DVDs coming out each month. I have divided them into two types -- regular entertainment and family DVDs. Information about regular DVDs can be found at DVDs. Looking for movies you can watch with your children? I have moved many of the family-oriented DVDs to a Family DVDs page. Here you will find wonderful DVDs you can enjoy with your entire family -- no matter the age. You will find background information about the DVD, but there are clips as well from Warner Bros. Enjoy!

CHRISTMAS DVDS
With the passing of the holidays, I have moved all the Christmas videos over to the Christmas DVD page.

NEW BOOKS TO CHECK OUT

STARGATE ATLANTIS: The Lost
by Jo Graham and Amy Griswold

Reeling from the terrible events of STARGATE ATLANTIS Homecoming, the expedition team are doing whatever it takes to find Doctor Rodney McKay – even if it means turning to their enemies for help.
While Colonel Sheppard and Teyla seek information from Ladon Radim of the Genii – and pay a high price to secure his reluctant cooperation – Ronon and Doctor Keller reopen tense negotiations with their sometime-ally, Todd. But as the balance of power begins to shift among the Wraith, Ronon and Keller struggle to ensure that they remain Todd’s allies and don’t become his hostages.
Meanwhile, far away, Rodney is facing a fate more terrifying than anyone on Atlantis could possibly imagine…

BABYLON 5 MUSIC VIDEOS AND TRIBUTES

I found a touching tribute to Johnny Sekka this morning. Johnny was Dr. Kyle in "The Gathering" - the original pilot for Babylon 5. I met Johnny at a convention once. He was an awesome personality. He had vast experience in theater and a resonent voice that was hard to forget. Johnny died in 2006 of lung cancer.

I found this message on the Babylon 5 moderated newsgroup this morning and just had to post it so that others might enjoy the marvelous music videos created by John Hudgens.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++
As some of you may know, I was hired by Joe Straczynski back in the day to create Babylon 5 music videos for him to use at science fiction conventions, and later to promote the show to networks. Eight were produced over the run of the series, not including the memorial videos I did later for Rick Biggs and Andreas Katsulas.

For the longest time, the only way to see these was if Joe or I showed them at a convention, but now, after numerous requests from fans over the years, Joe has given me permission me to post these online.

Danger Zone: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYNG0ow0G0k

I Need a Hero: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFo3Lau2Occ

Requiem: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7ckXY6yiVQ

Nobody's Side: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wk9LvldiOf0

Welcome to the Third Age: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YT5q_ltXiY0

Keep Yourself Alive: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0lRtpWR5lo

The Phantom B5 Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uV4GMNjDdYc

Third Age 2K: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqIyY0PWjbI

Richard Biggs memorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyD4L8yNtsA

Andreas Katsulas memorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2UQ2l9NPIg

- This is the extended version that I did for Andreas' widow ater the original cut was released on the net. It's never been seen online until now.

For those of you who've never seen these, I hope you enjoy them - and for those that have (and emailed me many times over the years about releasing them), I hope they're as good as you remember. Working with Joe on these videos was one of the highlights of my career, and I'll be forever grateful to him for the doors these have opened for me. I'm proud to have them on my resume.

John Hudgens
www.zteamproductions.com

COMIC BOOKS

Over the long summer break, Fringe has been quietly releasing comic books.
Tales from the Fringe has been revealing character backstories unrevealed on the show. Comic #1 followed Peter’s exploits in Iraq, while #2 followed Broyles’ first encounter with the alien from “Earthling.” Astrid became the focal point of issue #3, where we learned how she came to join the FBI, while the fate of Nina’s arm in the aftermath of the events of “Peter” was seen in issue #4. Gene the Cow’s dreams will be the focus of #5, out later this month, and Olivia’s “early days in the Fringe division” will be the subject matter of next month’s #6.
You can order back issues of each comic for only a couple of bucks from Amazon.com, and you can also get the big paperback compilation of the six issues for only $10.11. Of course, you’ll have to wait a while for the 144-page volume: it’s not slated to land until January.

May 27-29, 2011
Spooky's Empire May-Hem
Place: Orlando, FL
For more information visit the website at www.spookyempire.com, or call the Spooky Empire Hotline 954-258-7852.

June 12, 2011
Claudia Con - Los Angeles
Place: Claudia Christian's home in Los Angeles
Limited to 30 people only, so check it out now
For more information, go to http://ccla.claudiaconuk.com/

June 24-26, 2011
Contamination 2011
Place: Sheraton-Westport Chalet
City: St. Louis, MO For more information, go to http://www.con-tamination.com/page/419621604

July 1-4, 2011
FLORIDA FSC SUPERCON
Miami Airport Hotel & Convention Center
We've added over 20 guests to Florida Supercon 2011 since our last update! Our guest line up continues to grow each week and will be the biggest and best guest list we've ever had. Some of the guests we've added since our last update include:
Bruce Boxleitner has been a household name for almost 30 years. He is Tron and Alan Bradley in the Tron franchise, including the original Tron (film), Tron: Legacy (film), Tron: Uprising (upcoming TV series), Tron: Evolution (Video Game), Kingdom Hearts 2 (Video Game) and Tron 2.0 (Video Game). He is Captain John Sheridan in the Babylon 5 tv series, tv movies and film sequels. He is Lee Stetson on The Scarecrow and Mrs. King tv series.
Florida Super Comics, Games, Anime & More
5917 S. University Drive, Davie FL. 33338
954-434-4822
For more information, go to www.floridasupercomics.com.

Shoreleave33
July 8-10, 2011
Place: Baltimore, Maryland
For more information, go to http://www.shore-leave.com/registration
The deadline for preregistration is June 15, 2011. Thereafter, registration (limited to 1500) will be at the door only at a higher price.

Comiccon International, Moscone Center, San Francisco
July 21-24, 2011
Place: San Diego, California
For more information, go to http://www.comic-con.org

Steel City Con
July 29-31, 2011
Place: Monroeville Convention Center, Monroeville, PA
Guests: Lindsay Wagner (Bionic Woman), Margo Kidder (Lois Lane in 4 original Superman movies); Jeremy Bulloch, Star Wars
For more information, go to http://www.steelcitycon.com

ClaudiaCon in London August 13-14, 2011
(it's a dream come true for any fan! "All access-all the time", dinner with Claudia in her house, go to her birthday party, and more!)
For more information, go to http://www.claudiaconuk.com/

Woldcon2011: Renovation Aug 17-21, 2011
Place: Reno, Nevada
For more information, go to http://www.renovationsf.org

Dragoncon 2011 Sept 2-5, 2011
Place: Atlanta, Georgia
For more information, go to http://www.dragoncon.org/dc_guests_list.php

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS!
Creation Entertainment has a large number of conventions planned for the next several months. They include stars from TWILIGHT, SUPERNATURAL, STARGATE, FARSCAPE, XENA, SERENITY, STAR TREK, etc. Check out their calendar to see if one will be in your neighborhood soon. Don't miss their Videos page as well. It is full of some priceless video from a number of conventions.

Be sure to visit the referenced sites to see if there have been changes in dates/guests attending. Visit our Convention Calendar for a full listing of upcoming conventions.

BACK ISSUES OF THE ZOCALO TODAY

The front page of the The Zocalo Today changes daily, so be sure to check the back issues to make sure that you haven't missed anything IMPORTANT! I don't want the front page getting too long so I shift information periodically into the archives. So if you aren't a regular visitor to The Zocalo Today, be sure to check out the back issues. Just use the button above!

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Take care and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sandra Bruckner (sgbruckner@aol.com)
Editor/Publisher
ISN News: The Zocalo Today
http://www.isnnews.net
Copyright - SBruckner, 1999-2011